leniency
|le-ni-en-cy|
B2
/ˈliːniənsi/
mercy or tolerance
Etymology
Etymology Information
'leniency' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'lenientia,' where 'lenis' meant 'mild or gentle.'
Historical Evolution
'lenientia' transformed into the French word 'lenience,' and eventually became the modern English word 'leniency' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'mildness or gentleness,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'mercy or tolerance.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality of being more merciful or tolerant than expected; clemency.
The judge showed leniency by reducing the sentence.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45